Amphibious Combat Vehicles with 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division, completed the first open-water amphibious movement in the Kushi Crossing, Dec. 10, 2024.
ACVs are the Marine Corps’ newest amphibious vehicle platform and were first fielded in Fleet Marine Force units on Camp Pendleton, California, November 2022. The ACV was developed for the Marine Corps to replace the Assault Amphibious Vehicle, having began its long period of service in 1972. The ACV underwent close to nearly two years of trials and tests before the platform would make its debut overseas in Okinawa with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit June 24 of this year.
Less than a week later on June 29 III Marine Expeditionary Force units received ACVs of their own when the first vehicles participating in the Unit Deployment Program arrived in Okinawa as part of 4th Marine Regiment, 3d Marine Division. UDP units stationed in the continental United States rotate to Okinawa for six-month deployments to maintain experience operating in the Indo-Pacific region while providing assurance to allies and partners as well as deterring potential adversaries from conflict. Now as the second ACV platoon is participating in the UDP to 4th Marines, they are breaking new ground for amphibious operations on the island.
“Since the ACV has been fielded here in July, these training areas have not yet been transited by ACVs or validated,” said 1st. Lt. Jacob Yehl, the 4th Marines ACV platoon commander. “Our mission here today, and on this rotation, is to make sure all of those training areas and BLS’s (Beach Landing Sites) are trafficable and supportable for ACV operations in the future.”
Marines and their ACVs spent three days at the beach to validate amphibious operations with the new platform during low tide, high tide, and low-light conditions.
“Kushi Crossing is the only landing site in Okinawa that allows entry into the Central Training Area of Okinawa,” said Yehl. Validation that ACVs can operate in the Kushi Crossing ensures they can integrate seamlessly with other training units in Okinawa. The ACV platoon’s central mission, stated by Yehl, is “to provide ship-to-shore lift for the infantry and reinforcement of their assault to inland objectives.”
After a long period of operating the outdated AAV, experienced Marines are able to bring their tactical knowledge to bear in mastering the new vehicle. Staff Sergeant Juwan White, one of the unit’s section leaders, said “I remember eight years ago I was driving an AAV from Recon Beach, Camp Schwab here to Kushi, regularly. Now here I am today doing the same thing with an ACV for the very first time for the next generations of Marines to do.”
ACVs with 4th Marines will also be attached to the 31st MEU based on Camp Hansen, Okinawa to provide another capable ship-to-shore connector for the Marine Corps’ most rapid response force in the region.
In the Indo-Pacific, ACVs deliver commanders the ability to deploy a landing force to respond to crisis or conflict. When asked about the significance of the training’s completion, White said “The primary message of the training we conducted is that we’ve proven and shown that ACVs belong here in Okinawa for III MEF to have at their disposal.”
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WASHINGTON — A Florida man was arrested yesterday morning and charged with assaulting law enforcement with a weapon and other counts related to his alleged conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His alleged actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Joel Linn O’Donnell, 44, of Clearwater, Florida, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with seven offenses, including assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers with a deadly or dangerous weapon; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon; and engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon.
In addition to the felonies, O’Donnell is charged with two misdemeanor offenses of disorderly conduct in a Capitol building and an act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.
The FBI arrested O’Donnell December 19, in Clearwater. He made his initial appearance in the Middle District of Florida.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, O’Donnell attended a rally near the Ellipse in Washington, D.C., and afterward, joined a large crowd marching toward the U.S. Capitol building. Once on Capitol grounds, O’Donnell positioned himself at the Lower West Plaza.
O’Donnell, accompanied by an associate, moved closer to the Capitol building, transitioning from the West Front to the Upper West Terrace. There, he joined a mass of rioters on temporary stadium-style risers as objects were hurled at police officers nearby. The crowd reportedly chanted “TRAITORS!” at law enforcement officers attempting to control the unrest.
At approximately 4:54 p.m., it is alleged that O’Donnell advanced toward the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement that day, while carrying a large step and two long poles. Moments later, O’Donnell allegedly used these items as weapons, hurling all three of the objects at police officers defending the Tunnel.
At approximately 5:02 p.m., it is alleged that O’Donnell returned to the police line armed with a baseball bat and repeatedly struck a Metropolitan Police Department officer, hitting the officer’s riot shield. Court documents say that O’Donnell only retreated from the tunnel area after police deployed riot control munitions to disperse the crowd.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Tampa and Washington Field Offices which identified Gonzalez as AFO (Assault on Federal Officer) BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #352 on its seeking information images. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 47 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,572 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 590 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to prison today after he previously pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement with a weapon during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Joshua Lee Atwood, 31, of Burgettstown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 48 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss. Atwood previously pleaded guilty to a felony charge of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon.
According to court documents, Atwood traveled from his home in Burgettstown to Washington, D.C., to attend the Jan. 6, 2021, “Stop the Steal” rally on the National Mall. After the rally, Atwood made his way toward the U.S. Capitol building and, by approximately 4:22 p.m., arrived at the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement on January 6th. There, Atwood observed law enforcement officers actively attempting to prevent members of the crowd from entering the building.
At approximately 4:35 p.m., Atwood climbed into the Capitol building through a broken window next to the Tunnel and entered into a Senate room near the Lower West Terrace exterior doors. Atwood exited the building and, by approximately 4:51 p.m., joined the mob gathered around the Tunnel entrance, which law enforcement officers were actively defending. Atwood started throwing several objects at officers in the Tunnel, including a plastic bottle and a metal pole, both of which struck police officers.
Atwood then picked up a wooden pole and used it to forcibly strike at the riot shields of officers in the police line. Atwood then used the pole to strike an officer’s helmet before throwing the pole at the police line. Next, at approximately 4:56 p.m., Atwood drew a canister of pepper spray and continuously sprayed the officers guarding the Tunnel entrance until the canister was depleted. Atwood then threw the canister at police. Atwood then threw additional items at the police, including a baseball bat and a plastic bottle.
Atwood then used a police riot shield to strike at officers guarding the Tunnel, including by thrusting the bottom edge of the shield into the officer’s shields. When striking police with the riot shield, Atwood yelled, “F— off, you guys are all pieces of s—”, and “Everyone of you should be ashamed of yourself. Everyone of you m—f—are pieces of s—. Betraying your country like this, why would you betray your country. Do you love your country, or do you want civil…communist f—.”
Shortly after, Atwood picked up a metal scaffolding pipe and threw it at police. The pipe bounced off a riot shield and struck another officer in the head and neck. Moments later, Atwood picked up a heavy black speaker and threw it toward the group of officers.
The FBI arrested Atwood on April 17, 2024, in Pennsylvania.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania provided valuable assistance.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Pittsburgh and Washington Field Offices. Atwood was listed as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #229 in the FBI’s seeking information images. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 47 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,572 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 590 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police will implement crowd safety management measures and special traffic arrangements on both sides of Victoria Harbour on January 30 (Thursday) to facilitate the public to watch the Lunar New Year fireworks display.
Kowloon ——-
Crowd safety management measures in Tsim Sha Tsui ————————————————-
Police will implement crowd safety management measures in Yau Tsim District and Hung Hom Waterfront Promenade, including pedestrianising roads at Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom Waterfront Promenade in phases.
Depending on the prevailing crowd situation, Police will implement safety measures within the pedestrianised area including the closure of pedestrian subways and putting up barriers. One-way flow will be applied on overcrowded footbridges and in the vicinity of the waterfront promenade. If necessary, restrictions on access to MTR stations will be put into force by the MTR Corporation.
The Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the vicinity of the Clock Tower, and the Avenue of Stars are known to be popular gathering and vantage points. If these areas are saturated, the crowd will be diverted to other areas.
At present, there are some construction works at West Kowloon Cultural District. The contractors have erected hoardings and barriers to seal off the area concerned with relevant notices displayed. Members of the public are urged not to enter these construction sites nor climb or lean against the barriers.
Members of the public should follow the instructions given by Police officers and take heed of Police signage and broadcasts at scene.
Special traffic arrangements —————————-
The following special traffic arrangements will be implemented by phases, until the crowd has dispersed and the roads are safe for re-opening:
A. Road closure
The following roads will be closed, except for vehicles with permit:
Phase I (from 5pm onwards)
– Salisbury Road and Salisbury Road Underpass between Cheong Wan Road and Kowloon Park Drive; – Hung Hom Bypass between Salisbury Road and Metropolis Drive; – Hung Hom Bypass between Salisbury Road and Hung Hom Road; – Chatham Road South between Granville Road and Salisbury Road; – Southbound Chatham Road South between Cheong Wan Road and Granville Road, except for franchised buses and green minibuses (GMBs); – Granville Road between Chatham Road South and Science Museum Road, except for franchised buses and GMBs; – Canton Road between Gateway Boulevard and Salisbury Road; – Southbound Kowloon Park Drive between Gateway Boulevard and Salisbury Road; – Northbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Salisbury Road; – Southbound Nathan Road between Granville Road and Salisbury Road; – Carnarvon Road between Granville Road and Nathan Road; – Hong Wan Path; – Mody Lane; – Mody Road; – Mody Square; – Granville Square; – Minden Row; – Hanoi Road; – Bristol Avenue; – Minden Avenue; – Blenheim Avenue; – Hart Avenue; – Prat Avenue; – Humphreys Avenue; – Cameron Road; – Cameron Lane; – Hau Fuk Street; – Middle Road; – Peking Road; – Lock Road; – Hankow Road; – Ashley Road; – Ichang Street; and – Haiphong Road.
During the above road closure period, the following traffic diversions will be implemented:
– Traffic along southbound Hung Hom Road will be directed from Hung Hom Bypass to Cheong Tung Road South roundabout; – Traffic along eastbound Metropolis Drive cannot turn right to southbound Hung Hom Bypass; – Traffic along southbound Hung Hom Bypass must turn right to westbound Metropolis Drive; – Traffic along westbound Cheong Wan Road leading to Chatham Road South must turn right to northbound Chatham Road South or go straight to westbound Austin Road, except for franchised buses and GMBs; – Franchised buses and GMBs along southbound Chatham Road South must turn left to eastbound Granville Road; – Franchised buses along southbound Nathan Road must turn right to westbound Public Square Street or westbound Jordan Road; – Traffic along westbound Jordan Road cannot turn left to southbound Canton Road; – Traffic along southbound Canton Road must make a U-turn to northbound Canton Road outside China Hong Kong City; – Traffic along northbound Kowloon Park Drive cannot turn left to southbound Canton Road; – Traffic along eastbound Salisbury Road must turn left to northbound Kowloon Park Drive; – Traffic along northbound Kowloon Park Drive cannot turn right to Peking Road; – Granville Road between Nathan Road and Carnarvon Road will be re-routed to one-way eastbound, while traffic along southbound Nathan Road will be instructed to turn left to eastbound Granville Road; – Traffic along Science Museum Road cannot turn to Mody Road and Granville Road; – Traffic along southbound Salisbury Road near Hong Chong Road will be diverted to Tsim Sha Tsui East; and – Traffic along eastbound Granville Road near Chatham Road South must turn left to northbound Chatham Road South.
Phase II (from 5.30pm onwards)
– Northbound Kowloon Park Drive between Salisbury Road and Gateway Boulevard; and – Salisbury Road between Canton Road and Kowloon Park Drive.
Phase III (from 6pm onwards)
– Museum Drive; – Cultural Drive; – The slip road of eastbound Austin Road West at-grade leading to westbound Austin Road West near The Harbourside; – The slip road of westbound Austin Road West at-grade leading to eastbound Austin Road West near Xiqu Centre; and – The left lane of westbound Austin Road West leading to Austin Road West roundabout.
During the above road closure period, traffic along southbound Nga Cheung Road cannot enter Museum Drive.
Phase IV (from 7.45pm onwards)
– Nga Cheung Road between Jordan Road and Austin Road West; – Canton Road between Austin Road West and Kowloon Park Drive; – Nathan Road between Jordan Road and Austin Road; – Eastbound Bowring Street between Pilkem Street and Nathan Road; – Tak Shing Street between Tak Hing Street and Nathan Road; – Southbound Nathan Road between Austin Road and Granville Road; – Pine Tree Hill Road; – Hillwood Road; – Carnarvon Road between Kimberley Road and Granville Road; – Shun Yee Street; – Granville Circuit; – Northbound Chatham Road South between Observatory Road and Granville Road; – Kimberley Road between Nathan Road and Observatory Road; – Kimberley Street; and – Granville Road between Nathan Road and Chatham Road South.
During the above road closure period, the following traffic diversions will be implemented:
– Traffic along southbound Nathan Road must turn right to westbound Jordan Road; – Traffic along westbound Jordan Road cannot turn left to southbound Nathan Road; – Traffic along westbound Austin Road and southbound Cox’s Road cannot turn to Pine Tree Hill Road; – Traffic along Observatory Road cannot turn left to westbound Kimberley Street; – Traffic along northbound Pilkem Street cannot turn right to eastbound Bowring Street; – Traffic along eastbound Bowring Street will be diverted via northbound Pilkem Street; – Traffic along southbound Canton Road will be directed to eastbound Austin Road or westbound Austin Road West; – Traffic along eastbound Austin Road West cannot turn right to southbound Canton Road; – Traffic along westbound Jordan Road heading for Nga Cheung Road will be directed to Kowloon Station Public Transport Interchange; – Traffic along westbound Austin Road West will be diverted to northbound Nga Cheung Road elevated road; and – Traffic along southbound Nga Cheung Road will be directed to eastbound Austin Road West.
Contingency plan
If necessary, the following roads will be closed:
– Hung Luen Road between Wa Shun Street and Hung Lok Road; – Oi King Street; and – Kin Wan Street.
During the above road closure period, the following traffic diversions will be implemented:
– Traffic along southbound Hung Luen Road must turn left to eastbound Wa Shun Street; – Traffic along westbound Wa Shun Street must turn right to eastbound Hung Luen Road; – Traffic along southbound Hung Lok Road cannot turn left to eastbound Hung Luen Road; and – Traffic along eastbound Hung Luen Road must turn left to northbound Hung Lok Road.
B. Suspension of bus termini
The Tsim Sha Tsui East (Mody Road) Bus Terminus will be suspended from 5pm.
The Star Ferry Bus Terminus will be suspended from 5.30pm.
The China Hong Kong City Bus Terminus will be suspended from 7pm.
C. Suspension of parking spaces
All on-street parking spaces, metered parking spaces and motorcycle parking spaces within the closed areas will be suspended from noon to 3am of the following day.
D. Suspension of car parks
During the implementation of the special traffic arrangements, vehicles cannot enter or leave the car parks within the closed road area in Tsim Sha Tsui and West Kowloon Cultural District from 5pm and 6pm respectively, until the roads are safe for re-opening.
Hong Kong Island —————-
A. Road closure
Expo Drive East at the north of Expo Drive outside Golden Bauhinia Square, including the pick-up and drop-off areas, will be closed from 3pm.
The following roads will be closed from 5.30pm:
Central District —————- – Man Kwong Street; – Man Fai Street; – Man Yiu Street between Man Kwong Street and Man Po Street; and – Unnamed Road near Lung Wo Road outside General Post Office metered parking spaces.
Central – Wan Chai Bypass ————————- – The slip road linking eastbound Central – Wan Chai Bypass to Expo Drive; – The slip road linking Lung Wo Road to eastbound Central – Wan Chai Bypass; and – The slip road linking westbound Central – Wan Chai Bypass to Lung Wo Road.
Wan Chai ——– – Eastbound Fenwick Pier Street; – Lung King Street; – Eastbound Harbour Road; – Expo Drive; – Expo Drive Central; – Expo Drive East; – Lung Wo Road between Lung Hop Street and Fleming Road; – Lung Tat Path; – Convention Avenue; – Fleming Road flyover; – Fleming Road between Expo Drive East and Harbour Road; – Northbound Tonnochy Road between Harbour Road and Hung Hing Road; – Southbound Tonnochy Road between Hung Hing Road and Gloucester Road; – Marsh Road between Gloucester Road and Hung Hing Road; – Marsh Road flyover; – Hung Hing Road; – Hung Hing Road flyover; – Wan Shing Street; – Wan Ying Street; and – The slip road leading from eastbound Victoria Park Road to Causeway Bay Promenade.
The following roads will be closed from 6.45pm:
Central District —————- – Yiu Sing Street; – Lung Wo Road between Man Yiu Street and Lung Hop Street; – Tim Wa Avenue; – Legislative Council Road; – Tim Mei Avenue; – Lung Wui Road; – Lung Hop Street; – Unnamed road between Harcourt Road and Performing Arts Avenue; – Performing Arts Avenue; and – Edinburgh Place.
Wan Chai ——– – Tonnochy Road flyover; – Northbound Tonnochy Road between Gloucester Road and Harbour Road; – Harbour Drive; – Westbound Harbour Road; – Northbound Fleming Road between Gloucester Road and Harbour Road; – Fenwick Pier Street flyover; – Westbound Fenwick Pier Street; and – Fenwick Street between Harbour Road and Gloucester Road.
Eastern District —————- – Watson Road; – King Ming Road; – Hing Fat Street northward of Whitfield Road; – Whitfield Road; and – Electric Road between Watson Road and Gordon Road.
The following roads will be closed from 7.45pm:
Central District —————- – Man Yiu Street between Man Cheung Street and Man Po Street; – Man Po Street; and – Finance Street between Man Yiu Street and Man Po Street.
Wan Chai ——– – Lockhart Road and Jaffe Road between Percival Street and Luard Road; – Southbound Luard Road between Gloucester Road and Hennessy Road; – O’Brien Road; – Fleming Road between Jaffe Road and Hennessy Road; and – Stewart Road, Tonnochy Road, Marsh Road, Canal Road West and Canal Road East between Gloucester Road and Hennessy Road.
Eastern District (except for franchised buses) ———————————————- – Westbound Island Eastern Corridor (IEC) between Victoria Park Road and Man Hong Street; – The slip roads leading from Healthy Street Central and Tong Shui Road to westbound IEC; – The entrance of westbound Central – Wan Chai Bypass Tunnel from IEC.
B. Traffic diversions
In connection with the road closure as mentioned above, the following traffic diversions will be implemented:
From 5.30pm:
Rumsey Street between Chung Kong Road and Connaught Road Central will be re-routed to one-way southbound.
From 7.45pm:
– Traffic along westbound IEC will be diverted via Man Hong Street; – Traffic along slip road of Tong Shui Road heading for westbound IEC will be diverted via Wharf Road; and – Traffic along eastbound Connaught Road West flyover will be diverted via Finance Street.
C. Suspension of parking spaces
All on-street parking spaces, metered parking spaces and motorcycle parking spaces within the above closed areas will be suspended from 10am, until the roads are safe for re-opening.
D. Suspension of bus termini and public transport interchange
Exhibition Centre Station Public Transport Interchange and Central Ferry Piers Bus Terminus will be suspended from 4.30pm.
Causeway Bay (Whitfield Road) Bus Terminus will be suspended from 6pm.
E. Suspension of car parks
Vehicles parked in car parks within the above closed areas in North Point, Wan Chai and Central District will not be permitted to enter or leave during the road closure period.
If necessary, the car parks on westbound Gloucester Road between Paterson Street and Percival Street will be closed without prior notice.
Police will continue to enforce traffic regulations during the Lunar New Year period. All vehicles parked illegally during the implementation of the above special traffic arrangements will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.
Actual implementation of traffic arrangements will be made depending on traffic and crowd conditions in the areas. Motorists are advised to exercise tolerance and patience, and take heed of instructions of the Police on site.
Exactly a year ago this Saturday, the Prime Minister and I announced a controversial but important decision to provide every Australian taxpayer a tax cut to help with the cost of living.
One year on and I can say without hesitation that it’s the policy I’m proudest of as Treasurer.
Every taxpayer is better off as a result of the decision we took 12 months ago, not just some, and those benefits will be even bigger from July this year.
New numbers just released show there will be even more money on average in the pockets of every taxpayer next financial year.
Fourteen million taxpayers across the country have already received a tax cut under Labor’s plan since July last year.
By the end of this financial year, around 84 per cent of all taxpayers will have received a bigger tax cut compared to Scott Morrison’s proposal from 5 years ago.
And nearly 3 million people earning less than $45,000 who were going to miss out completely under the Liberals and Nationals are getting a tax cut under Labor.
Whether you’re a nurse, a truckie, a teacher or a tradie, Labor’s plan is all about helping you earn more and keep more of what you earn.
New figures show that with higher wages under the Albanese government, chances are your tax cut will be even bigger next financial year.
Due to stronger wages growth under your Labor government, tax cuts will grow from $1,888 this financial year to $1,944 on average next year – putting more money back into workers’ pockets.
It’s a meaningful increase because it shows we’re making welcome progress on the economy after a wasted decade under the Liberals and Nationals.
A truckie earning $72,800 in this financial year, whose income grows to $75,600 in 2025–26, would get a tax cut of $1,569 next financial year compared to $1,499 this financial year.
A nurse earning $72,300 in this financial year, whose income grows to $75,500 in 2025–26, would get a tax cut of $1,567 next year compared to $1,487 this year.
A teacher earning $85,600 in this financial year, whose income grows to $87,800 in 2025–26, would get a tax cut of $1,874 in 2025–26 compared to $1,819 in 2024–25.
We’re giving every Australian taxpayer a tax cut at the same time as we’re getting wages moving again, fighting inflation and creating jobs.
Wages growth has picked up and on average, wages are growing at almost double the rate they were under our predecessors.
Inflation was high and rising under the Liberals, it’s much lower under Labor.
At the election, inflation was 6.1 per cent, it’s now 2.8 per cent.
More than 1.1 million jobs have been created since the election and unemployment has remained low at 4 per cent.
The combination of tax cuts, moderating inflation, wage and employment growth means real household incomes per person are also growing again.
They were going backwards 1.6 per cent when we came to office.
That means Australians are earning more and keeping more under Anthony Albanese and Australian Labor but all of this substantial progress is at risk under Peter Dutton and the Liberals.
The Deputy Liberal leader is on the record saying that if the Coalition wins the next election, they will ‘absolutely’ unwind our tax cuts.
If Peter Dutton and the Coalition really cared about the cost of living, they would have supported our cost‑of‑living relief but they didn’t and they don’t.
They want Australians to work longer for less.
The biggest risk to household budgets, jobs and wages is a Peter Dutton‑led Coalition government.
Only this week we’ve seen Peter Dutton wants to make families worse off to pay for tax breaks for long lunches and golf days for bosses.
The contrast couldn’t be clearer – we’re for tax cuts for workers and energy bill relief for families, they’re for taxpayer funded long lunches and golf days.
The Liberals are all about waste and rorts and Labor is all about responsible economic management and that’s reflected in our decision to give a tax cut to every taxpayer to help with the cost of living.
No matter what you earn or where you live throughout Australia, you deserve your tax cut.
That’s what we’re delivering because of the important decision we took a year ago, and that’s why we’re proud of the even bigger tax cuts you’ll get next financial year.
Our aim in all of this is to find the best way to help ease the cost of living for the biggest number of people in the most responsible way and that’s what we’re doing with tax cuts for every taxpayer, strong and sustainable wages growth and more jobs for more Australians.
NEWARK, N.J. – The former Vice President of Project Management for National Realty Investment Advisors (“NRIA”) has been indicted for his role in an investment fraud scheme and for misappropriating approximately $2.3 million from victim investors, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced today.
Ivel Turner, 51, of Newark, Delaware, was indicted by a federal grand jury with eight counts of wire fraud and one count of securities fraud. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sharon A. King in Camden federal court and was released on a $100,000 unsecured appearance bond and other conditions. His arraignment is scheduled for February 4, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Turner was previously employed as Vice President of Project Management for NRIA, which held itself out as a real estate investment management fund with over $1.25 billion in assets under management. NRIA promised investors guaranteed returns of at least 12 percent per year for a period of five years, a full return of their investments, and monthly distributions of between six and ten percent of their original investments. Turner had access to NRIA’s PPM, which made many such representations pertaining to NRIA’s purported returns on investment and distributions.
In April 2020, while still employed at NRIA, Turner incorporated Oasis Realty Investment Group (“ORIG”). Turner, through ORIG, solicited real estate investors to purchase, finance, and co-develop residential units in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and elsewhere. Turner used NRIA as a model for ORIG.
To induce investors to invest and continue to invest in ORIG, Turner made material misrepresentations and omissions related to, among other things: (a) ORIG’s financial position; (b) the manner in which Turner used investor money; and (c) Turner’s role at ORIG. Turner also falsely represented to the victim investors that substantially all of ORIG’s proceeds would be used for real estate investment purposes, but instead, Turner misused hundreds of thousands of dollars of investor money on personal expenses, including luxury retail purchases, several vehicles, international travel, and a down payment on his residence.
The wire fraud charges each carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The securities fraud charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of up to $5,000,000.
Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna credited special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Terence G. Reilly, with the investigation leading to the indictment.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Defense counsel: Rubin M. Sinins, Esq., Springfield, New Jersey
The Al Jazeera Network has condemned the arrest of its occupied West Bank correspondent by Palestinian security services as a bid by the Israeli occupation to “block media coverage” of the military attack on Jenin.
Israeli soldiers have killed at least 12 Palestinians in the three-day military assault that has rendered the refugee camp “nearly uninhabitable” and forced displacement of more than 2000 people. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said the Jenin operation was a “flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and human rights”.
Al Jazeera said in a broadcast statement that the arrest of its occupied West Bank correspondent Muhammad al-Atrash by the Palestinian Authority (PA) could only be explained as “an attempt to block the media coverage of the occupation’s attack in Jenin”.
We’re following with concern the arrest of journalist Mohammed Al-Atrash by the Palestinian security forces in connection with his work at Al Jazeera and call for his immediate release./1 pic.twitter.com/M2ZcEoWqJl
“The arbitrary actions of the Palestinian Authority are unfortunately identical to the occupation’s targeting of the Al Jazeera Network,” it said.
“We value the positions and voices that stand in solidarity and defend colleague Muhammad al-Atrash and the freedom of the press.”
The network said the journalist was brought before a court in Hebron after being arrested yesterday while covering the events in Jenin “simply for doing his professional duty as a journalist”.
“We confirm that these practices will not hinder our ongoing professional coverage of the facts unfolding in the West Bank,” Al Jazeera’s statement added.
The Israeli occupation has been targeting Al Jazeera for months in an attempt to gag its reporting.
Calling for al-Atrash’s immediate release, the al-Haq organisation (Protecting and Promoting Human Rights & the Rule of Law in the Occupied Palestinian Territory) said in a statement: “Freedom of opinion and expression cannot be guaranteed without ensuring freedom of the press.”
Rage over AJ ban Earlier this month journalists expressed outrage and confusion about the PA’s decision to shut down the Al Jazeera office in the occupied West Bank after the Israeli government had earlier banned the Al Jazeera broadcasting network’s operation within Israel.
“Shutting down a major outlet like Al Jazeera is a crime against journalism,” said freelance journalist Ikhlas al-Qarnawi.
He said a December 26 press statement by the Israeli army attempted to “justify a war crime”.
“It unabashedly admitted that the military incinerated five Palestinian journalists in a clearly marked press vehicle outside al-Awda Hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp, central Gaza Strip,” Kuttab said in an op-ed article.
Many Western publications had quoted the Israeli army statement as if it was an objective position and “not propaganda whitewashing a war crime”, he wrote.
“They failed to clarify to their audiences that attacking journalists, including journalists who may be accused of promoting ‘propaganda’, is a war crime — all journalists are protected under international humanitarian law, regardless of whether armies like their reporting or not.”
Israel not only refuses to recognise any Palestinian media worker as being protected, but it also bars foreign journalists from entering Gaza.
“It has been truly disturbing that the international media has done little to protest this ban,” wrote Kuttab.
“Except for one petition signed by 60 media outlets over the summer, the international media has not followed up consistently on such demands over 15 months.”
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Khalif Ward, 27, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky to a term of 46 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $25,000 fine for firearms offenses.
In December of 2023, Ward was indicted on one count of possession of a machine gun and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. He pleaded guilty to both charges in October.
The defendant, a rap artist known as “Leaf Ward,” with hundreds of thousands of online followers, committed the offenses while on release for a state case involving the straw purchase and illegal transfer of firearms, and after he was found in possession of a firearm after being shot in 2020.
As stated in court documents, on August 16, 2023, Ward took a stolen vehicle to the Bahama Breeze restaurant in the King of Prussia Mall. Officers doing proactive details in the parking lot ran the registration for the car, which came back stolen out of Philadelphia. The officers then began the process of towing the vehicle. While the car was in the process of being towed, Ward exited the restaurant with his girlfriend.
Ward ran toward the tow truck, until he saw the uniformed police officers and the marked police vehicle. He then sprinted back into the restaurant, where an employee saw him put a loaded Glock firearm into a kitchen trash can and discard his hat nearby.
Officers chased Ward into the restaurant and through the kitchen, apprehending him behind the eatery and recovering the loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol, which was found to be fitted with a illegal switch converting it from semi-automatic to fully automatic fire.
“Despite two prior gun convictions, Ward continued to wield these weapons, boldly displaying them in his videos and carrying them on the street,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Moreover, the pistol he tried to ditch when running from police was altered to enable automatic fire. This office will continue to work with the ATF and our state and local partners to get guns out of the hands of people not permitted to have them, to tamp down violent crime and make the public safer.”
“Keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous criminals is why the law prohibits felons from having firearms,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “In this case, the defendant was not only illegally carrying a loaded weapon in a busy public location, but he was carrying a pistol turned into a machine gun. Such converted weapons are extremely dangerous as they can fire an entire magazine of bullets in seconds, often hitting uninvolved bystanders. ATF is committed to working with our partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals like Ward who endanger our neighborhoods.”
The case was investigated by the ATF, United States Secret Service, and the Upper Merion Township Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Lanni, Everett Witherell, and Shayna Gannone.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DWINE HARDY (“HARDY”), age 32, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 7, 2025, by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey, after previously pleading guilty to Counts 1, 2, and 3 of a four-count indictment. The indictment charged HARDY with being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8) (Count 1); possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(0) and 924(a)(2) (Count 2); and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) (Count 3).
HARDY was sentenced to 70 months’ imprisonment as to Counts 1, 2, and 3, with each count to be served concurrently. Judge Zainey also imposed a 3-year term of supervised release following HARDY’s release from prison and payment of a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, Kenner police officers stopped HARDY in a stolen vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered illegal narcotics, drug paraphernalia, two Apple iPhones, 15 rounds of ammunition, and a stolen Glock Model 23 .40-caliber pistol. The firearm was equipped with a machine gun conversion device and an extended 22-round capacity magazine.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Kenner Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
One person has been taken into custody following outstanding Police work in Whangārei overnight.
At about 5.10pm, officers spotted a vehicle which had been identified from two robberies in the Kensington and Tikipunga areas on 22 January.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB, says Police signalled for the vehicle to stop in Otangarei however it failed to do so and fled from Police.
“The vehicle was then abandoned and the occupants fled.
“The dog unit arrived quickly, putting cordons in place and locating two people within minutes.”
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says a 16-year-old was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery and unlawfully getting into a vehicle. Further charges are being considered.
“This was an excellent example of a well-coordinated response to some dangerous behaviour within our community.
“If you witness any unlawful behaviour please contact Police, you can report information to us by calling 111 if it is happening now or via 105 either online or over the phone if it’s after the fact.”
The 16-year-old will appear in Whangārei Youth Court today.
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Capt. Emmanuel Oti Boateng and U.S. Army Spc. Danielle Soberanis, a medic assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), assess a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. SETAF-AF strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios and preparing teams for the upcoming U.S. Army Best Medic Competition in Texas. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Nathan S. Nance, a combat medic assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade, fills a syringe during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025.U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios and preparing teams for the upcoming U.S. Army Best Medic Competition in Texas. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Capt. Emmanuel Oti Boateng, prepares to insert a syringe into a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025.U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partnered Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL
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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa
VICENZA, Italy — Augustine Akagri had never felt anything like the biting cold of the Italian Alps. As a warrant officer class II in the Ghana Armed Forces with 15 years of combat medical experience and a Ghana Jungle Badge, he believed he was ready for any challenge — until he faced the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) in subzero temperatures.
“When I was going through it [ACFT] I felt the cold in my ribs and my tongue was numb,” said Akagri.
What carried him through wasn’t his medical training, but the resilience skills he had learned during a session with U.S. Army Chaplain Capt. Allen Hoskyn the day before.
“The resilience training helped a lot, I told myself ‘forget this cold and this numbness, I need to finish this,” said Akagri.
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Emmanuel Adarkwa, left, and U.S. Army Sgt. Heith E. Walston, a combat medic assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, treat a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Augustine Akagri, a combat medic, simulates reacting to contact during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Capt. Emmanuel Oti Boateng, a combat medic, prepares to fire an M-4 Carbine in a simulated stress shoot during the Partnered Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partnered Medical Training. The partnered Medical Training enables participants from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghanaian Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners. The event also challenges medics to conduct their duties while under the stress of simulated combat scenarios, preparing teams for the upcoming Best Medic Competition Feb. 2025 in Texas. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL
The ACFT was just the beginning of Akagri’s experience. Alongside two other medics from the Ghana Armed Forces, he participated in the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force-Africa (SETAF-AF) Partner Medical Training exercise, designed to strengthen medical readiness and interoperability between partners.
The three-day event brought together U.S. Army medics and medical professionals from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, and Dental Health Activity-Italy to train with the Ghana Armed Forces team. Participants underwent intensive medical training over the first two days, followed by a final day dedicated to testing. During the testing phase, participants were divided into three mixed teams, with each team comprising members from all participating units. The teams tackled 12 challenging lanes which included tactical combat casualty care, stress shooting and K9 tactical combat casualty care.
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Heith E. Walston, a combat medic assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, checks the breathing pattern on a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025.U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios and preparing teams for the upcoming U.S. Army Best Medic Competition in Texas. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Augustine Akagri, a combat medic, places a litter with a simulated casualty in a medical vehicle during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Augustine Akagri, a combat medic, assesses a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025.U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL
Not only did the training provide valuable experience for both Ghanaian and American medics, but it also created an opportunity to exchange medical knowledge.
“They [Ghanaian medics] have much more clinical medical knowledge, whereas we focus more on trauma,” said Sgt. Brayden Chapman, a combat medic from the 1-503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade. “I saw different ways of treating wounds because they use a different set of medications than we do, based on what’s available to them versus what’s available to us.”
Chapman added, “Overall, the training was of deep value.”
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Augustine Akagri, a combat medic, left, and U.S. Army Sgt. Brayden J. Chapman, a combat medic assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, discuss how to approach a simulated casualty during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios and preparing teams for the upcoming U.S. Army Best Medic Competition in Texas. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Capt. Emmanuel Oti Boateng, left, and U.S Army Spc. Danielle Soberanis, right, a medic assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), listen to instructions given by a lane grader during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. SETAF-AF strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partnered Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla)3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Emmanuel Adarkwa, left, Ghana Armed Forces Warrant Officer Class 2 Augustine Akagri, center, Ghana Armed Forces Capt. Emmanuel Oti Boateng, right, fire M-4 Carbines in a simulated stress shoot during the Partner Medical Training exercise at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Jan. 15, 2025. U.S. Army Southern European Task Force Africa, (SETAF-AF), strengthens interoperability with African partners through focused security cooperation exchanges such as the Partner Medical Training. The Partner Medical Training enables teams from SETAF-AF, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, the Dental Health Activity – Italy, and the Ghana Armed Forces to share medical best practices, strengthening readiness and interoperability between partners, while challenging medics to conduct their duties under the stress of simulated combat scenarios. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla)VIEW ORIGINAL
Like Chapman, Akagri gained a wealth of medical knowledge during the three-day training, which he hopes to share with his unit back in Ghana.
“It’s been an amazing experience. We’ve learned a lot of things, and we were also able to share our ideas with the other participants,” Akagri said.
Most of all, Akagri will remember the cold weather — and that he’ll think twice before turning off the AC at home.
“When I turned off the AC in my house, my wife told me, ‘How are you going to cope when you’re out there [in Italy]?’ So when I got here and felt the cold, I kept remembering her words.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
A major deal, worth approximately £9 billion, has been struck with British firm Rolls-Royce to bolster support to the Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear submarines, boosting national security and economic growth and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change.
Vanguard-Class nuclear submarine at sea.
Deal with Rolls-Royce to support Royal Navy submarine fleet and bolster national security.
Major boost for economic growth, creating and maintaining 5,000 long-term UK jobs.
New contract ensures more efficient Government spending and delivers on nuclear ‘triple-lock’ commitment.
A major deal, worth approximately £9 billion, has been struck with British firm Rolls-Royce to bolster support to the Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear submarines, boosting national security and economic growth and delivering on the government’s Plan for Change
Creating more than 1,000 UK jobs and safeguarding 4,000 other roles, the contract with Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd – dubbed ‘Unity’ – will deliver the design, manufacture and support services to nuclear reactors to power our submarines.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP will announce the deal today on a visit to Rolls-Royce’s nuclear reactor production facility in Derby. Alongside backing thousands of UK roles, the agreement also streamlines previous contracts and incentivises more efficient delivery, resulting in better value for money for the taxpayer through savings of more than £400 million over the eight-year contract. As part of our national endeavour to maintain a continuous at-sea deterrent, this agreement will help streamline decision-making and foster the kind of close partnership between industry and government that is essential to our success.
The announcement bolsters Britain’s security as a foundation of the Government’s Plan for Change, and strengthens the historic AUKUS partnership with the USA and Australia. In line with the upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy, Unity will drive significant UK economic growth over many years.
In Derby today, John Healey will speak with staff and apprentices, and use the visit to reinforce the Government’s commitment to the ‘triple-lock’ on the nuclear deterrent, which includes: building four new nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness, in Cumbria; maintaining our continuous at sea nuclear deterrent; and delivering all future upgrades needed.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:
This investment in Britain’s defence will deliver a long-term boost to British business, jobs and national security.
In line with our Plan for Change, this deal with Rolls-Royce, a historic British success-story, will support high-skilled UK jobs who equip the thousands of submariners that keep us all safe. We are showing defence can be an engine for growth, while also driving better value for taxpayer money.
National security is a foundation of our government’s plan for change, and this is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the UK’s nuclear deterrent, which is our ultimate insurance policy in a more dangerous world.
The eight-year contract represents long-term certainty for a major British business, building in resilience and capability across the supply-chain. This will generate more efficiency and allow for effective risk and opportunity management, providing incentives to produce more for no increase in cost, including on work such as the building of Dreadnought Class submarines.
The agreement will also help streamline decision-making and foster close partnership with industry, supporting the aims of the new Defence Industrial Strategy.
Steve Carlier, President Rolls-Royce Submarines said:
We’re delighted to announce the Unity Contract, which confirms our commitment to the Royal Navy and the Defence Nuclear Enterprise. This long-term contract enables us to invest in the right skills, equipment, and facilities to play our part in protecting UK interests at home and overseas.
The Government is committed to the nuclear deterrent triple Lock:
Building four new nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness, supporting high-quality, high-status apprenticeships and jobs, with the supply chain benefits being felt right across the country.
Britain maintaining its continuous at-sea deterrent, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – securing protection for both the UK and NATO allies.
The delivery of all future upgrades needed for those submarines to patrol the waters and keep our country safe.
Sir Chris Gardner KBE, CEO Submarine Delivery Agency said:
The signing of the Unity contract is a key milestone in the SDA and Rolls-Royce partnership, building resilience, collaboration, and capability. Bringing together existing commercial arrangements, it is a clear signal of our commitment to deliver greater effectiveness, efficiency, and agility to meet the needs of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise and support the Royal Navy’s submarines now and into the future.
CFA firefighter Lisa Hicks was recognised in today’s Australia Day Honours, receiving an Australian Fire Service Medal for her 49 years of dedicated service to CFA and her community.
Lisa Hicks has been a dedicated member of CFA for almost 50 years. During this time, she has served in a range of roles in Narre Warren North and Pakenham Upper brigades and supporting roles in Cardinia Group.
She is currently the secretary and community safety coordinator of Pakenham Upper brigade and group community safety coordinator and is employed full-time as a brigade administrative support officer (BASO). She has supported incident control centres (ICC) and incident management teams for 30 years as a public information officer and is an endorsed crew leader and is still operational.
“When I’m in an ICC, I know what the firefighters are facing and that helps me to understand what they need to make informed decisions. And as a crew leader, I see it through the eyes of a firefighter on the ground and know what I need from an ICC,” Lisa said.
Lisa also delivered the Fire Safe Kids Program to local schools and kindergartens for the past 20 years and is involved in a working group to update the program.
“Fire Safe Kids has been an amazing journey,” Lisa said. “Although each class is different, the children are like sponges absorbing the information. When you deliver the information in a fun way, they learn better. I recently worked with all the schools in Cardinia and asked the kids to do a home fire safety plan and make sure they have working smoke detectors.”
She was instrumental in establishing and maintaining the Cardinia Group compressed air breathing apparatus refilling station. She supervised the build and testing of the facility, development of documentation and the training of all refilling operators.
In her role as a BASO she has supported brigades across the Cardinia Group to recruit new members over many years. She has a strong understanding of the operational and non-operational requirements of brigades.
As a dedicated firefighter for almost 50 years, Lisa has made a significant contribution on the frontline of many major fires, including the 1983 Ash Wednesday fire at Upper Beaconsfield. When the fire started in Belgrave South, she responded on Narre Warren North brigade’s tanker and was on one of the first trucks on scene. Despite having only just married Steve Hicks, captain of Narre Warren North, she spent the next fortnight working long hours on opposite shifts to her husband. She fought through all stages of this major fire, including the response, containment, blacking out, patrolling, and supporting the local community, brigade, family, and friends.
“As we headed to Belgrave South, the column of smoke just kept growing – it looked bad. None of us had experienced anything like it before. It seemed to change direction at will,” Lisa said.
“It was a hot, windy day and nothing was going to stop the fire. We couldn’t hold it, so we were sent further along to try to get ahead of it. Unfortunately, that was impossible so we just did what we could, wherever we could. We never stopped fighting until late that night when we changed crews.
“Through the heartache of the loss of fellow firefighters, we took comfort that this was a turning point for CFA to make sure it was never repeated. We now have crew protection, diesel pumps, better radio communication, strike teams and incident control centres.”
Another catastrophic fire, the Bunyip Ridge fire, ripped through the Cardinia Group area in February 2009 following a lightning strike three days earlier. In the lead-up to the fire, Lisa supported key district pre-planning meetings and activities to prepare for the extreme weather. She ensured the Pakenham ICC was fully operational and Cardinia Group brigades were fully stocked and prepared. Over the next few weeks, Lisa worked continuously, undertaking fire brigade activities wearing her two hats – that of a CFA employee and CFA volunteer. Perhaps the most important support she gave was offering a friendly face and focusing on the wellbeing of our brigade leaders and volunteers.
On 1 March 2019, multiple lightning strikes started fires across the Bunyip State Park and Gembrook areas. Over the next five days, four fires combined to form one large blaze with the Bunyip fires burning until the end of the month. Through March, Lisa was in high demand by her brigades and the Cardinia Group. She was constantly picking up and dropping off replacement turnout gear, maps, incident action plans, water, foam, and countless other items to brigades and the divisional command point.
Lisa’s husband Steve received an AFSM last year.
“It’s amazing that both Steve and I have now received this award. To be nominated for an AFSM was an honour, and I’m even more honoured to receive one,” Lisa said.
Residents and visitors alike have been watching episodic lava fountains in Halemaʻumaʻu at the summit of Kīlauea since late December 2024. While beautiful and safe to view, this activity has left residents of communities nearby wondering about the dusting of glittery threads on their property.
Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological SurveyHawaiian Volcano Observatoryscientists and affiliates.
On January 16–17, persistent lava fountaining at Kīlauea summit, coupled with Kona wind conditions, resulted in Pele’s hair falling on nearby communities and within parts of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This photo was taken near Kīlauea Visitor Center, where strands of the fine volcanic glass had accumulated into tubular tumbleweeds of Pele’s Hair reaching up to 56 centimeters (22 inches). USGS photo by K. Mulliken.
Pele’s Hair is the name for the strands of volcanic glass that are created when globs of liquid lava are stretched apart during an eruption. These golden strands can be more than a meter (3 feet) long and less than 1 millimeter (0.04 inches) thick. They are very light weight and can be wafted up in the hot or warm eruption plume, allowing them to be carried by wind and fall in areas far from eruption sites.
Tradewind conditions would typically take these particles downwind in a southwest direction from Kīlauea summit, into the Kaʻū Desert area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. However, during episode 4, from January 15–18, there were no tradewinds. The lack of wind allowed the eruption plume, and all the particles in it, to spread out to the north dropping Pele’s Hair fell in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National, Volcano Golf Course, Volcano Village, Mauna Loa Estates, and Ohia Estates. In some areas, the hair tangled into tumble-weed like structures up to 60 cm (about two feet) long.
You may be wondering if there are steps you need to take regarding vehicles, pets and children being outside, grazing livestock, or water catchment systems if you live in an area that has been affected by Pele’s Hair.
Much of the general guidance about volcanic ash exposure and cleanup can be applied to Pele’s Hair, though the two are not exactly the same. Ash is defined as particles smaller than 2 millimeters (0.079 inches) in diameter. While Pele’s Hair is usually thicker and longer, it is likely that ash-sized particles are also falling with Pele’s Hair. And fragile Pele’s Hair can also easily break into ash-sized pieces. Pele’s hair doesn’t wash off of grassy areas as easily as ash and might impact grazing animals, but there are no studies of these impacts. If you are concerned, considered supplementing your animals’ feed or relocating them to an area where Pele’s Hair did not fall. Pele’s Hair could be beneficial to pasture growth in the long term.
The recent eruption episode deposited less than 1 millimeter (a fraction of an inch) of Pele’s Hair in communities near Kīlauea’s summit. This amount usually does not require any action but it’s good to be aware and prepared in case more Pele’s Hair falls in the future or accumulates over time.
Take a look at any flat surfaces outside on your property to evaluate the amount of Pele’s Hair that has accumulated. The hood of a vehicle that was parked outside, for example. If you do notice any material on your vehicle, it’s a good idea to rinse the particles off with water—especially from windows and door handles as it can scratch paint and metal surfaces.
Both Pele’s Hair and volcanic ash are abrasive and can irritate eyes, skin, and respiratory systems. Limiting exposure is the best way to avoid being impacted; consider wearing protective clothing or equipment (gloves, eye protection, facemask) if you cannot limit your exposure. Rainfall and wind will eventually remove the Pele’s Hair, or plants will bind it into the soil.
The amount of Pele’s Hair that fell recently was small enough to be handled by most general filtration systems. However, if you are concerned about Pele’s Hair getting in your water catchment system during future lava fountain episodes, there are steps you can take to prevent that from happening. Disconnect the downpipe that connects your gutter system to your tank when Pele’s Hair is falling. This will prevent particles from entering your tank. A rainfall or rinsing will clean much of the material off your roof and flush it out of your downpipe. Then, reconnect your downpipe to your tank again.
Pele’s Hair deposition depends on the type of eruptive activity and wind conditions. Five fountaining episodes have taken place so far at Kīlauea summit and monitoring data show patterns suggesting that this type of activity could continue. If you live near the eruptive activity, please stay aware and reach out to askHVO@usgs.gov if you have any questions or concerns.
Volcano Activity Updates
Kīlauea is erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.
The summit eruption at Kīlauea volcano that began in Halemaʻumaʻu crater on December 23 ended its 5th episode at 4:30 AM HST January 23 after 14 hours of eruptive activity from the north vent. Kīlauea summit has been inflating since the eruption ended. Resumption of eruptive activity is possible within days if summit inflation continues at current rate. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. Earthquake rates in the Southwest Rift Zone and upper to middle East Rift Zone remained comparable to the previous week. Ground deformation rates outside of the summit region remained steady.
Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.
No earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week.
HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today (with photos) Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today (with photos) ******************************************************************************************
The Government has, with effect from today (January 24), opened a specified section of road within the frontier closed area (FCA) near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok, by exempting the requirement to apply for a closed area permit for the public travelling by green minibus passing through this section of road, with a view to facilitating travel for members of the public and tourists to Lin Ma Hang Village and Robin’s Nest Country Park. A spokesman for the Security Bureau stated, “Robin’s Nest Country Park was established in November last year. Having considered public views on opening the relevant section of road within the FCA near Lin Ma Hang Village and after careful study of the feasibility, the Government decided to implement special arrangements to open the relevant road portion.” The Hong Kong Police Force published in the Gazette today that, pursuant to section 38A(1) of the Public Order Ordinance, the requirement to apply for a closed area permit would be exempted for any person travelling to and from Lin Ma Hang Village by green minibus passing through the road within the FCA between Wang Lek and the entrance of Lin Ma Hang Village. Starting from today, members of the public and tourists can take green minibus No. 59K (Sheung Shui Station – Lin Ma Hang) from Sheung Shui MTR Station to reach Lin Ma Hang Village through the relevant section of road within the FCA. After alighting, members of the public can visit tourist attractions such as MacIntosh Forts and Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine directly via the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail and can continue towards the direction of Sha Tau Kok via the Robin’s Nest Country Trail to enjoy the scenery around Yan Chau Tong and Shenzhen Wutong Mountain. “We hope this measure can facilitate visits by members of the public and tourists to Robin’s Nest Country Park and nearby areas for sightseeing and experiencing Hong Kong’s rich geological features and historical heritage,” the spokesman said. The spokesman added that this exemption is only applicable to persons travelling by green minibus through the relevant section of road within the FCA and does not apply to private vehicles, taxis or other vehicles without a valid closed road permit, or to members of the public using other means of travel such as walking or cycling. “In fact, there are various ways to visit Robin’s Nest Country Park, not limited to the above road within the FCA. Members of the public and tourists may choose other transportation means and routes, including New Territories green minibus No. 55K (Sheung Shui Station – Sha Tau Kok), KMB bus No. 78K (Sheung Shui Station – Sha Tau Kok), or KMB bus No. 277A (Lam Tin Station – Sha Tau Kok), to arrive at the Tam Shui Hang stop of Sha Tau Kok Road (Shek Chung Au), and then to the entrance of the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail through Shan Tsui Village Road. Public transport operators will closely monitor passenger demand and reserve sufficient vehicles and manpower to enhance frequency according to actual passenger growth,” the spokesman said. For more information on Robin’s Nest Country Park, please visit the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s website (www.afcd.gov.hk) or the Enjoy Hiking website (www.hiking.gov.hk).
China’s automotive company Geely Auto introduced the Geely EX5 as its first model for the Indonesian market.
“We firmly believe that Indonesia has great potential to become a hub for smart and sustainable mobility. Geely is here to offer mobility solutions that prioritize technology, sustainability, and an exceptional driving experience,” said Evin Ye, vice president of Geely Auto International Corporation, during the Geely EX5 launching in Jakarta on Wednesday.
According to him, the company plans to establish a knock-down factory for local vehicle production in the archipelagic country and begin manufacturing in the third quarter of 2025.
Cahyo Purnomo, investment promotion director for East Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa at the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry, said that Chinese investment continues to grow and is an important part of Indonesia’s industrial development, particularly in the field of electric vehicles.
Geely Auto’s presence is more than just business, according to Cahyo, it also brings the newest electric car technology, which adds to the domestic automotive ecosystem and supports the archipelagic country’s economic progress.
Geely Auto is a subsidiary of Geely Holding Group, an automotive manufacturer based in Hangzhou, China, that has operated in over 100 countries.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China has just sent a new satellite group into space from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China’s Shanxi Province. The satellite group was launched at 1:15 p.m. Beijing Time on January 23 aboard a modified Long March-6 carrier rocket and entered orbit successfully. The group consists of 18 commercial satellites, which is the sixth batch that will constitute the Spacesail Constellation.
Spacesail is a low-Earth orbit mega-constellation that aims to offer global satellite internet services, supporting sectors such as transportation, new energy, smart cities, smart agriculture, emergency disaster relief and the low-altitude economy. The constellation officially began commercial network construction on August 6, 2024.
The modified Long March-6 carrier rocket is a new generation of medium-sized launch vehicle that both uses solid and liquid propulsion. The rocket has a carrying capacity of no less than 4.5 tonnes to a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 700 kilometers.
Headline: Expressing Firm Determination to Solve Global Environmental Problems and Promote Business Transformation Using AI
He introduced the example of Panasonic HX, which efficiently supplies renewable energy by controlling the coordination of pure hydrogen fuel cells, solar cells, and storage batteries using an advanced energy management system while responding to changes in electric power demand and weather conditions. This solution is already in operation at the Kusatsu site in Japan and a manufacturing site in the UK, and it will be deployed in an office building in Munich, Germany, this spring.
Kusumi also spoke about the OASYS residential central air conditioning system to be released in the US market, which air conditions and ventilates an entire house using a combination of a mini split air conditioner, an energy recovery ventilator, and transfer fans using a DC motor-driven ventilation system. He pointed out that it is at least 50% more energy efficient*1 than conventional air-conditioning systems.
＊1: Conventional air-conditioning systems use a heat pump cooling system (14.2 SEER2) and a gas furnace (80% AFUE) for houses that are performance-compliant with IECC 2015. OASYS uses Panasonic’s mini split air conditioners and transfer fans for both cooling and heating functions in houses that are performance-compliant with OASYS-required specifications (estimated by converting gas energy consumption to electricity).
In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have taken the spotlight for their contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. Regarding automotive cylindrical lithium-ion batteries that support the widespread use of EVs, Kusumi mentioned that Panasonic has supplied a total of 15 billion cells to power over 3 million EVs. He also introduced the 2170 cell with the world’s highest energy density,*2 the high-capacity 4680 cell, whose mass production will begin soon, and the company’s collaboration with major carmakers. Furthermore, he mentioned the partnership with Redwood Materials Inc. in the US for the purchase of recycled cathode active materials and copper foil. JB Straubel, CEO of Redwood Materials, joined Kusumi and offered words of encouragement, “Panasonic is an incredible leader when it comes to technology and their commitment to sustainability.”
＊2: As of January 8, 2025, survey by Panasonic Energy Co., Ltd.
Upcoming issues will introduce key figures engaged in Panasonic HX, OASYS, and the automotive cylindrical lithium-ion battery business.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 30-year-old male in relation to domestic violence offences on Thursday afternoon.
Around 10am Thursday, police received intelligence that a male who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence assault the previous day, Wednesday 22 January 2025, was in possession of a firearm and driving through the Palmerston area.
Territory Safety Division (TSD) members attended the male’s residence on Tarakan Court, established a cordon, and the 30-year-old male was arrested. During a lawful search of the unit, officers located and seized a quantity of illicit substances.
A subsequent search of the offender’s vehicle located a firearm and ammunition, which were also seized.
The firearm was not used during either incident.
The offender remains in police custody, with charges expected to follow. Investigations are ongoing.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or, in an emergency, call 000. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
A 19-year-old Stoodley man has been charged in relation to evade police and hooning matters that occurred in the Kentish area on two occasions in January. On Saturday 18 January, members of Latrobe Police Station were on mobile patrol on Buelah Road, Stoodley, when they observed a grey Ford Falcon Sedan conducting a large burn out. Police attempted to intercept the vehicle, when the driver evaded police. A search warrant was subsequently executed at a residence in Stoodley, where the vehicle was located. The 19-year-old driver was charged with multiple offences and bailed to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court in April. The man’s vehicle was clamped for a period of 28 days. As part of the investigation, the man was also charged in relation to a separate hooning matter on Railton Road and Native Rock Road at Railton on New Year’s Day. Sergeant Jeremy Williams said police remained committed to road safety and continued to conduct high-visibility patrols. “It is disappointing when drivers not only put their own lives at risk, but the lives of other road users,” he said. “Tasmania Police has zero tolerance when it comes to hooning offences and this type of driving behaviour is unacceptable. Anyone with information or cash cam footage should contact Latrobe Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a 30-year-old male in relation to domestic violence offences on Thursday afternoon.
Around 10am Thursday, police received intelligence that a male who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence assault the previous day, Wednesday 22 January 2025, was in possession of a firearm and driving through the Palmerston area.
Territory Safety Division (TSD) members attended the male’s residence on Tarakan Court, established a cordon, and the 30-year-old male was arrested. During a lawful search of the unit, officers located and seized a quantity of illicit substances.
A subsequent search of the offender’s vehicle located a firearm and ammunition, which were also seized.
The firearm was not used during either incident.
The offender remains in police custody, with charges expected to follow. Investigations are ongoing.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or, in an emergency, call 000. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police will implement crowd safety management measures and special traffic arrangements to facilitate worshippers visiting Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin during the Che Kung Festival period.
Crowd safety management measures ——————————–
A large crowd is anticipated to visit Che Kung Temple and Che Kung Festival Fair during the Lunar New Year period. Depending on the crowd conditions, one-way pedestrian flow may be implemented at MTR Tai Wai Station and in the vicinity of Che Kung Temple, including Che Kung Miu Road and Chui Tin Street, between 11pm on January 28 and 8pm on Feberuary 2 to ensure public order and safety. Members of the public are urged to observe order and be patient while waiting in a queue.
Special traffic arrangements —————————-
A. Road closure
The following roads will be closed from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:
– The slow lane of westbound Che Kung Miu Road between Sha Tin Tau Road and Chui Tin Street; – The right-turn lane of westbound Che Kung Miu Road between Chui Tin Street and near Che Kung Temple; – The slow lane of northbound Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu Road and the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House; and – The slow lane of southbound Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu Road and the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House.
B. Traffic diversions
The following traffic diversions will be implemented from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:
– Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road cannot turn left to Chui Tin Street; – Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road cannot turn right to the private road of The Wai; – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn left to the road leading to the public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple; – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn right to the road leading to the public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple; – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street cannot turn right to the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House; – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street cannot go straight to the private road of The Wai; – Traffic along westbound Che Kung Miu Road heading for southbound Chui Tin Street and the private road of The Wai will be diverted via westbound Che Kung Miu Road, roundabout and eastbound Che Kung Miu Road; – Traffic along southbound Chui Tin Street heading for the entrance of Sun Chui Estate near Sun Fong House will be diverted via southbound Chui Tin Street, westbound Chui Tin Street, roundabout, eastbound Chui Tin Street and northbound Chui Tin Street; and – Traffic along northbound Chui Tin Street heading for the private road of The Wai will be diverted via westbound Che Kung Miu Road, roundabout and eastbound Che Kung Miu Road.
C. Cycle track closure
The following cycle tracks will be closed from 8pm on January 28 to 8pm on February 2:
– The cycle track along Tsuen Lam Road between Tai Wai Road and the western riverside of Shing Mun River Channel; – The cycle track along the western riverside of Shing Mun River Channel between Tai Wai Soccer Pitch and Che Kung Miu Road; – The cycle track along the eastern riverside of Shing Mun River Channel between Tai Wai Soccer Pitch and Man Lai Court; – The cycle track connecting the eastern and western riverside of Shing Mun River Channel near Block 1 of Man Lai Court; – The cycle tracks along both sides of Che Kung Miu Road between Chui Tin Street and Sha Tin Tau Road; – The cycle track inside the subway system at the junction between Che Kung Miu Road and Chui Tin Street; – The cycle track inside the subway system at the junction between Che Kung Miu Road and Sha Tin Tau Road; – The cycle track along southern kerbside lane of Che Kung Miu Road between Chui Tin Street and Island School Tai Wai; and – The cycle tracks along both sides of Chui Tin Street between Che Kung Miu Road and the unnamed road leading to public car park near Che Kung Temple.
During the cycle track closure period, cyclists may use the cycle track along the northern riverside of Shing Mun River Channel between Lion Rock Tunnel Road and Shing Wan Road commuting to and from Sha Tin.
D. Suspension of car parks
The public car park at Chui Tin Street near Che Kung Temple will be suspended from 6am on January 28 to 8pm on February 2, and from 7am to 6pm daily on February 8, 9, 15 and 16, except for vehicles with permit.
The public car park at Chui Tin Street near Greenview Garden will be suspended from 6am on January 28 to 8pm on February 2, except for vehicles with permit.
Members of the public are advised to make use of public transport to visit Che Kung Temple and Che Kung Festival Fair.
During the implementation of the special traffic arrangements, any vehicles found illegally parked within the precincts mentioned above will be towed away without prior warning, and may be subject to multiple ticketing.
Police will implement the above arrangements subject to traffic and crowd conditions in the area. Members of the public are advised to exercise tolerance and patience and take heed of instructions of the Police on site.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on February 15 Auction of personalised vehicle registration marks to be held on February 15 ****************************************************************************
The Transport Department (TD) today (January 27) announced that an auction of personalised vehicle registration marks (PVRMs) will be held on February 15 (Saturday) in Meeting Room S421, L4, Old Wing, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. “A total of 240 approved PVRMs will be put up for public auction. A list of the marks has been uploaded to the department’s website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/index.html,” a department spokesman said. The reserve price of each of these marks is $5,000. Applicants who have paid a deposit of $5,000 should also participate in the bidding (including the first bid at the reserve price). Otherwise, the PVRM concerned may be sold to another bidder at the reserve price. People who wish to participate in the bidding at the auction should take note of the following points: (1) Bidders are required to produce the following documents for completion of registration and payment procedures immediately after successful bidding: (i) the identity document of the successful bidder;(ii) the identity document of the purchaser (if the purchaser and the successful bidder are different persons);(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation (if the purchaser is a body corporate); and(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed. Successful bidders may also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS), but are reminded to note the maximum transfer amount in the same day of the payment card. Payment by post-dated cheque, cash, credit card or other methods will not be accepted. (2) Purchasers must make payment of the purchase price through EPS or by crossed cheque and complete the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM immediately after the bidding. Subsequent alteration of the particulars in the Memorandum will not be permitted. (3) A PVRM can only be assigned to a motor vehicle which is registered in the name of the purchaser. The Certificate of Incorporation must be produced immediately by the purchaser if a vehicle registration mark purchased is to be registered under the name of a body corporate. (4) The display of a PVRM on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 of the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations. (5) Any change to the arrangement of letters, numerals and blank spaces of a PVRM, i.e. single and two rows as auctioned, will not be allowed. (6) The purchaser shall, within 12 months after the date of auction, apply to the Commissioner for Transport for the PVRM to be assigned to a motor vehicle registered in the name of the purchaser. If the purchaser fails to assign the PVRM within 12 months, allocation of the PVRM will be cancelled and arranged for re-allocation in accordance with the statutory provision without prior notice to the purchaser. “Upon completion of the Memorandum of Sale of PVRM, the purchaser will be issued a receipt and a Certificate of Allocation of Personalised Registration Mark. The Certificate of Allocation will serve to prove the holdership of the PVRM. Potential buyers of vehicles bearing a PVRM should check the Certificate of Allocation with the sellers and pay attention to the details therein. For transfer of vehicle ownership, this certificate together with other required documents should be sent to the TD for processing,” the spokesman added. For other auction details, please refer to the Guidance Notes – Auction of PVRM, which is available at the department’s licensing offices or can be downloaded from its website, www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/vehicle_registration_mark/pvrm_auction/index.html.
Detectives investigating a rape in Westminster have released an E-FIT image of a man they are working to identify.
On Tuesday, 14 June 2022, a woman reported walking alone along Bradiston Road, W9, when a car, believed to be a dark coloured Audi A3, stopped at the junction ahead of her.
An unknown man pushed the woman from behind into the vehicle, then drove away with her inside before raping her.
After the assault the woman was pushed back out of the vehicle not far from where she’d been picked up.
The incident happened at 21:00hrs one evening in March 2022.
Detectives have released an e-fit of the man they urgently need to trace.
He was described as speaking with a Jamaican accent and believed to be in his late 30s, tall with short dreadlocks, and a significant facial scar.
Detective Constable, Leon Riley, from the policing team covering Westminster, said:
“If you recognise the man in the image please contact us without delay.
“We have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the incident and we continue to support the victim who, as far as possible, has been trying to live her life as normal since it happened.
“It was a horrifying ordeal for her and we thank her for supporting the investigation to trace the man responsible for assaulting her, and now helping us build an e-fit of the suspect.
“Women should be able to walk alone without fear and we are dedicated to protecting women and girls from predatory offenders such as this.
“Anyone who recognises the man, or has information, please contact police on 101 quoting 6533840/22.
“Or, to remain completely anonymous call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.”
MANILA, PHILIPPINES (27 January 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a financing package of up to $100 million to support Ayala Corporation’s contributions to the development of an electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines. This funding will be used to procure and install electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) and to purchase electric vehicles for commercial distribution.
The package includes a concessional loan from the Canadian Climate and Nature Fund for the Private Sector in Asia (CANPA). ADB’s financing, along with the concessional loan, will be used to develop a network of EVCS in the Philippines. This blended financing features an innovative pricing structure aimed at accelerating deployment of EVCS infrastructure. A portion of the ADB financing will be allocated to procure electric vehicles from leading manufacturers for distribution across the country.
“This project is a significant step towards a sustainable and low-carbon future for the Philippines,” said ADB Country Director for the Philippines Pavit Ramachandran. “By fostering the development of a robust electric mobility ecosystem, we are not only addressing critical environmental challenges such as air pollution, but also driving economic growth through the creation of green jobs, enhancing energy security, and promoting inclusive and resilient urban development.”
Electric vehicle (EV) development is still nascent in the Philippines. High initial costs, limited charging infrastructure, and evolving technologies have posed significant barriers to adoption of EVs in the country. But the Philippine government’s Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act and various tax incentives are helping create a more favorable environment for the growth of the EV sector.
The creation of an EVCS network is crucial for electric vehicles to become more popular. The EVCS to be set up with the ADB financing package will address gaps in EV charging infrastructure, thereby facilitating faster adoption of electric vehicles.
“This innovative blended financing comes at an opportune time as Ayala, through ACMobility, continues to ramp up its electric mobility investments. As we help build a comprehensive EV ecosystem for the Philippines, we wish to thank like-minded institutional partners like ADB for helping us expand our electric mobility initiatives, accelerate our contribution to the Philippines’ climate goals, and reaffirm our purpose of building businesses that enable people to thrive,” said ACMobility’s President and CEO Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala.
Established in 2024, CANPA is a trust fund managed by ADB, supported by a commitment of Can$360 million from the Government of Canada. The fund builds on the success of the two previous funds, namely the Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in Asia II (CFPS II) and its predecessor CFPS. CANPA aims to support private-sector projects in Asia and the Pacific that focus on climate and nature-based solutions, while also promoting gender equality.
Ayala Corporation is one of the Philippines’ largest and most enduring conglomerates. With a diverse portfolio that includes real estate, banking, telecommunications, and renewable energy, the company is well-positioned to lead the development of the electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines. Key to Ayala’s growing sustainable business portfolio is its access to innovative financing options such as blended finance, which is supported by public, private and philanthropic funds.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.
Attributable to Detective Peter Smallfield, Invercargill Police:
Two young people are facing Youth Court in Invercargill after a series of burglaries in a stolen car overnight.
A Mazda vehicle was stolen from a Kingswell address in the early hours of the morning by two people, who later pulled up to a jewellers in the central city around 5am.
They have got out and attempted to smash the windows with a scooter, and when they were not able to gain entry, travelled to a service station in Newfield.
Again, they were not able to gain entry.
Stopping the vehicle on a street nearby, they have had an interaction with a member of the public, in which they have pretended to have a firearm with them in order to scare them away.
They have then travelled to a dairy in Winsdor, where they have managed to smash their way in.
The pair stole items including vapes, cash, and confectionery before getting back into the vehicle and driving a short distance away.
A Police dog unit has located the vehicle and tracked the occupants who had fled on foot, taking them into custody shortly after 6am.
Two young males were due in the Invercargill Youth Court today, appearing jointly on three charges of burglary, one of theft of a motor vehicle and one of being unlawfully in a closed yard.
This behaviour is incredibly frustrating for residents and business owners in our community, and it’s pleasing to have been able to immediately hold this pair to account.
We want to extend our thanks to the members of the public who observed suspicious behaviour and reported it to Police on 111 straight away, enabling the quick apprehension of the two youths.
It is also a reminder to take every precaution possible to help avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Remember to take property security measures with your vehicles – keep them inside a secure garage if possible, remove valuables, and consider a steering wheel lock. This all helps make your vehicle less desirable for opportunistic thieves.